NJShore Guide

Halloween in Asbury Park

Zombie Walk & indie Halloween culture

10,000+Zombie Walkers
15+Years Running
FreeTo Participate
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Halloween Weekend at a Glance

Oct 24

Zombie Walk 2026

10,000+

Participants

Free

To Join

2 PM

Walk Starts

Why Asbury Park for Halloween?

Asbury Park hosts one of the largest zombie walks on the East Coast. Every year, thousands of people in elaborate zombie makeup and costumes shamble down the boardwalk in a spectacular display of undead creativity.

The indie spirit of Asbury Park makes Halloween special here. Local bars host creative costume contests, the Stone Pony has Halloween shows, and the whole town embraces the weird and wonderful.

Beyond Zombie Walk weekend, Asbury Park's historic boardwalk and Victorian architecture provide an atmospheric backdrop for the Halloween season. The Paramount Theatre is rumored to have its own ghost.

πŸ’• Sample Romantic Weekend

Morning Prep

Apply zombie makeup at your hotel. Many participants spend hours on elaborate effects.

Zombie Walk

Join the walk at 2 PM. Route goes along the boardwalk. Photographers love this event!

After-Party

Hit the bars on Cookman Ave. Many venues have after-parties and costume contests.

Live Music

Catch a Halloween show at Stone Pony, Wonder Bar, or other venues.

Romantic Restaurants

Reserve 2-3 weeks early for halloween weekend. Many offer special prix-fixe menus.

Porta

$$

Pizza

Garden patio perfect for people-watching

Talula's

$$

Pizza

Sourdough pizza, great cocktails

Pascal & Sabine

$$$

French

Elegant pre-event dining

Moonstruck

$$$

Mediterranean

Lake views, upscale atmosphere

Pop's Garage

$$

Mexican

Tacos and margaritas

Toast

$$

Breakfast

Morning after brunch

Halloween Nightlife

Where to party after the Zombie Walk

🍸

The Stone Pony

Legendary rock club, Halloween shows

🍸

Wonder Bar

Beachfront bar, costume contests

🍸

Johnny Mac's House of Spirits

Craft cocktails, great atmosphere

🍸

Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten

German beer hall vibes

Romantic B&Bs & Hotels

Asbury Park's accommodations offer the perfect romantic retreat. Many offer special packages.

The Asbury Hotel

Hipster favorite

Rooftop bar, bowling alley, central location

Asbury Ocean Club

Luxury beachfront

Ocean views, upscale amenities

The Berkeley Oceanfront

Historic hotel

Renovated 1920s building, pool

Ocean Grove B&Bs

Nearby Victorian

Walking distance, charming atmosphere

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Book Romantic Experiences

Romantic Activities

2 PM
Zombie Walkβ€” Free to join, meet at convention hall
All Day
Boardwalk Strollβ€” Murals, art, and spooky October vibes
Evening
Bar Costume Contestsβ€” Multiple venues host competitions
Night
Live Musicβ€” Stone Pony and other venues have Halloween shows

halloween Weekend Tips

Zombie Walk Tips

  • β€’ Arrive early for makeup application
  • β€’ Wear comfortable shoes
  • β€’ Bring touch-up makeup supplies
  • β€’ Stay hydrated - it's a long walk

Costume Tips

  • β€’ Go elaborate - this crowd appreciates effort
  • β€’ Bring a change of clothes for after
  • β€’ Practice your zombie shuffle
  • β€’ Props are welcome

Logistics

  • β€’ Book hotels months in advance
  • β€’ Parking is limited - consider Uber/Lyft
  • β€’ Many bars are 21+ after dark

Other Romantic Shore Getaways

Frequently Asked Questions

Join the Undead

Be part of one of the East Coast's biggest Halloween traditions.